Innholdsfortegnelse for November/December 2025 i Franschhoek Life

In the heart of Franschhoek Valley, where whispers of French heritage linger among the vines, Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate has stood since 1694, carrying centuries of harvests, craftsmanship, and culinary evolution. This land tells the stories of the first peoples of the Cape, Dutch settlers with spices from the East, and generations who transformed soil, culture, and flavour into lasting legacy. At the estate’s centre rises a majestic oak tree, a silent sentinel over countless gatherings and seasons. It inspired The Oak at Grande Provence, a restaurant where tradition and innovation converge beneath its ancient branches. Under the direction of Executive Chef Anvor Fortuin, the menu is a tribute to South Africa’s layered culinary heritage. Dishes reimagine the land’s flavours with contemporary finesse — from wild, earthy notes once…

Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen brings the joie de vivre of French bistro culture to Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. Opening 5 December 2025, Le Bistrot de JAN offers a relaxed a la carte menu, classic South of France comfort food reimagined with South African flair, and moments to savour—think midday martinis, long harbour lunches, and live jazz at sunset. Led by Executive Chef Giles Edwards, it’s a full-circle homecoming of flavour, elegance, and playful indulgence in one of the city’s most iconic settings. https://janonline.com/le-bistrot-de-jan/?srsltid=AfmBOoq7kmzc0qBxphXiYwRYEWUEBhSBwpej3ErhyL3sSVHvY_-nghvM…

Where turbines once turned, a new rhythm flows — of fine food, slow sails, and Knysna’s untamed beauty rediscovered. The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa – once a working power station on Thesen Islands – has reinvented itself as one of South Africa’s most extraordinary five-star stays. Industrial history meets laid-back luxury, with panoramic lagoon views, luxe rooms, and seriously good food. At the heart of it all, The Island Café is a dining destination that hums with energy. Tables are tucked between refurbished turbines, fireplaces flicker, and glass doors open to an al fresco terrace overlooking the canals. Expect fresh, locally sourced fare – Executive Chef Greg Coleman’s menu reimagines South African classics with global flair. Think farm-to-table, ocean-to-table, and even honey-to-table (his own bees supply the honey). From…

Decades of digital mastery reveal the artist within and the ever-expanding power of her creativity. Caitlin Truman-Baker’s digital art was more than images—it was a window into how she saw the world and who she was deep inside. Her work inspired, provoked, and shifted perceptions, inviting viewers to connect, reflect, and sometimes confront the unexpected. Colourful, explosive, uplifting, troubling—her digital universe had the power to expand the mind and stir the soul. For decades, Caitlin explored the evolving realm of digital art, a field once new but now fully embedded in our fast-moving world. From AI-generated imagery to museum-ready works, digital art mirrors our swipe-and-scroll culture, yet in Caitlin’s hands, it became timeless, emotive, and profoundly human. Through her art, Caitlin shared a journey of insight and growth with collectors…

Rustic loaves, bomboloni, and picnic platters meet mountain air and mindful indulgence. Hidden in the stillness of Jonkershoek and the hum of gravel-road cyclists, Motherdough has found its newest home. The artisanal bakery, known for cult-followed sourdough and legendary grilled cheese toasties, brings its Italian-inspired, naturally fermented magic to Arkelshoek Farm in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Motherdough isn’t just a bakery—it’s a philosophy. Every loaf, pastry, pizza base, and panino is made without shortcuts, commercial yeast, or additives. At the centre of it all is Alfonsina, a 106-year-old starter from Clusone, Italy. Here, the mother really is the method. The Jonkershoek location invites guests to slow down. Cross a yellow wooden bridge, wander a flower-lined path, and discover a vegetable and herb garden that spills into indoor and…

This November, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, hosts the fourth Confections x Collections (CxC)—a celebration of African heritage, culture, and slow fashion. Curated by Twyg, CxC 2025: Our Homecoming highlights ethical, locally made luxury, honouring Africa’s textile traditions while shaping modern design. From 6–8 November, the hotel’s halls and gardens come alive with fashion shows by CONNADE, Yoshita 1967, UNI FORM, and MaXhosa Africa, each blending storytelling, culture, and couture with a reimagined Afternoon Tea. Collections will also feature at AKJP Concept Store, Kloof Street. Tickets ZAR995 per act via DinePlan. Celebrate Africa’s creative legacy and sustainable luxury. https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/confections-collections?srsltid=AfmBOop-gZM6Dd4tp96uCYh_2NE2WkqeENqpfArrEIBAexQRotezyuVQ…